SECRETS IN THE SHADOWS

Chapter 1 : The Release

Theo Ivan stepped through the prison gates , the sunlight hitting his face like a long-lost embrace. After years of wrongful imprisonment , he felt a mix of anxiety and determination surge within him. The world outside was both familiar and alien , and he had one mission : to clear his name .

Waiting for him was Jay Kim , a police officer with a serious demeanor and a look of resolve. Standing there just looking at Theo and when Theo came close said "Welcome back to the real world , Theo" , he said , extending a hand "I know this isn't easy."

Theo shook his hand , feeling the warmth of human connection. "Thanks , Jay. I didn't expect help from the police. What's the plan?"

Jay's jaw tightened. "We need to find the real culprit who framed you. I have a lead-- a suspicious area near the forest. Are you in?"

"Absolutely", Theo replied. "Let's get started."

As they drove away from the prison, Theo gazed out the window , memories flooding back . The vibrant colors of the world were overwhelming , and he took a deep breath. "What do you know about the case?"

Jay's eyes were focused on the road. "Your trail was a mess. Evidence was fabricated. Someone wanted you locked away so badly that they created the best false rumors against you."

"Do you have any suspects?" Theo asked , hi curiosity piqued.

"Not yet, but i think we'll find clues in the forest. It's rumored to be a hideout for criminals."

"Well how many days we have to stay there?" Theo asked , not wanting to stay in forest for too long.

"Why you scared or what?" Jay replied , knowing Theo is annoyed. "Just 5 days don't worry , camp base team is already there."

"Hmm" Theo replied.

With the destination set , they drove in the silence , both men lost in their own thoughts. the forest was loomed ahead , dark and mysterious, as if hiding secrets of it's own.

They both weren't able to find the camp team anywhere , so they decided to take a rest , near by village.

Arriving at the forest edge , they stepped out of the car , the thick air with the scent of pine and damp earth. "This place feels off."

"Trust your instincts," Jay replied, scanning the surroundings. "We'll need to be cautions."

As they ventured deeper into the woods , the sunlight flickered through the branches , casting eerie shadows on the ground. After hours of trekking , they found the small tribal village nestled between the trees. 

The villagers welcomed them with warm since a detective team already came before them and help them a lot , so they provided healthy food and a place for them to stay in , As they told them to sat near the fire to keep themselves warm , Theo felt a sense of comfort , something he hadn't experienced in years.

"What brought you two here?" an elder asked , his voice deep and soothing.

"We're searching for the murderer it's been long and he still haven't been found." Jay explained. "He been doing many terrible things and got away with it." Theo continued.

The elder nodded knowingly. "Finding such criminals will be very hard but don't worry light is always following nice people, Hope you find that monster."

Later at the night , Theo and Jay sat together , remembering the old days , and Theo told his side of the story.

"I never knew my best friend will not take my side and frame me, and what about all the things i did for him? , he knew i wasn't the criminal and he still frame me." Theo told Jay angrily.